SA still on alert for flu strain

By Nadia Samie

While the dangerous strain of influenza that hit South Africa this winter is subsiding, the elderly and those with weak immune systems are advised to take special care.

The country had experienced a flu epidemic during the peak winter-time. Sapa quotes Johan Cloete, spokesperson for pharmacy group Alpha Pharm, as saying that the declining sales of flu and cold medicines indicate that South Africa is over the worst.

The National Institute of Communicable Diseases says that the number of new cases of influenza being reported has also decreased significantly.

Certain strains of Influenza can cause severe illness and even death to those who are most vulnerable. High-risk groups include the elderly, those with heart problems, diabetes or HIV positive.

Vitamin C and immune-boosting supplements, adequate rest and reduced stress have been advised by medical practitioners to ward off flu infection during the remaining weeks of winter.